Have you ever stood on a patch of your property, dreaming of adding a few more chalets or a new function space, only to be hit by the thought: “What about the water?” It’s a question that’s only going to get more pointed as our climate changes. Well, the State Government has just put that very question front and centre for all future development in WA.
They’ve released a new planning policy for water, and it’s easy to dismiss this stuff as just another piece of bureaucratic paper. But I want you to look at this differently. This isn’t just red tape; it’s a new rulebook for growth. If you have any plans to expand, build, or significantly change your operation in the coming years, you need to understand what this means.
So, What’s Actually Changing?
In short, the government has taken a messy pile of six old water policies and guidelines and combined them into one. Think of it like taking a tangled bunch of fishing lines and replacing it with a single, strong cord. The goal is to make things clearer and, most importantly, to force everyone to think about water sustainability from day one of any new project.
Here’s the breakdown of what this new “State Planning Policy 2.9” really does:
- It puts water first. Previously, water management could feel like an afterthought in a development application. Now, it’s a non-negotiable part of the initial conversation. You’ll have to prove your project is water-wise and climate-resilient *before* you get the green light.
- It’s about future-proofing. This policy isn’t just about today’s rainfall. It’s a direct response to our drying climate, designed to ensure that new developments aren’t putting a strain on our most precious resource 20 years from now.
- It simplifies the process (in theory). While new rules can feel complex, having one central policy instead of six should eventually make it easier for you and your consultants to know exactly what’s required. No more hunting through a dozen different documents.
It’s easy to look at this and just see another hurdle. And believe me, I understand that frustration. But I challenge you to see this as an opportunity. This is about de-risking your future investment. A business that is water-secure is a business that’s built to last.
What You Should Do About It Now
This policy doesn’t kick in until late 2025, but smart operators get ahead of the curve. You don’t need to become a hydro-geologist overnight, but you should take some practical steps. Here are three things you can do today:
- Talk to Your Planner Early. If you have an expansion on the horizon in the next 2-5 years, call your planner or development consultant. Ask them how this new “SPP 2.9” will impact your plans. Getting this conversation started now could save you a world of pain later.
- Audit Your Own Water Use. Forget the government for a second. When was the last time you truly audited your own water efficiency? Look at your irrigation, your guest amenities, your cleaning processes. Finding efficiencies now isn’t just good for the planet; it’s great for your bottom line and gets you aligned with the direction this new policy is heading.
- Don’t Go It Alone. This is exactly the kind of complex issue that WAAA exists to help you navigate. We are digging into the details of this policy to understand the practical impacts on tourism operators like you. Stay tuned for our updates and guidance.
Change like this can feel daunting, but building a resilient, future-proofed tourism industry in WA is a team sport. By planning for these changes now, you’re not just ensuring compliance; you’re building a more sustainable and valuable business for the long haul.
The WAAA Board will continue to advocate for you on this issue.
